Nile Blue
General Information about Nile Blue (#174057)
The hex color #174057, also known as Nile Blue, is a deep, muted shade of blue with subtle green undertones. It evokes feelings of tranquility, sophistication, and stability. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 9.02% red, 25.1% green, and 34.12% blue. In the CMYK color model, which is often used for printing, it consists of 74% cyan, 26% magenta, 0% yellow, and 66% black. This color is often associated with professionalism, trustworthiness, and calmness, making it a popular choice for corporate branding, websites, and interior design. Its relatively low saturation gives it a subtle and understated appearance, allowing it to blend seamlessly with a variety of other colors and design elements. The Nile Blue color can also create an elegant and peaceful ambience.
The hex color #174057, also known as Nile Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as text against a white background, it might not meet the WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for sufficient contrast, potentially hindering readability for users with visual impairments. Similarly, using it as a background color with light text may also pose issues. To improve accessibility, consider pairing it with lighter shades of yellow, white, or other high-contrast colors. Tools like contrast checkers can assist in determining appropriate color pairings to ensure compliance with accessibility standards. Remember that perceived contrast can also be affected by font weight and size, so testing with various text styles is crucial. Sufficient contrast helps everyone, not just those with disabilities, to read and understand content more easily.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #285067
A slightly lighter shade that improves readability while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #106087
A more saturated blue that provides better contrast against light backgrounds.
- #336699
For users who prefer a lighter background with dark text, a dark grayish-blue hue offers a softer alternative to stark black, maintaining readability while providing a subtle visual appeal that can reduce eye strain.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Nile Blue can be used for website headers, navigation bars, and accent elements to create a professional and calming feel. Its depth makes it suitable for backgrounds behind text blocks, especially when paired with light-colored text. Furthermore, it can be applied to buttons and interactive elements to draw attention without being overly aggressive. Consider utilizing it in data visualizations to represent important metrics or categories, taking advantage of its association with trust and stability. However, always ensure adequate contrast for accessibility.
Interior Design
In interior design, Nile Blue is a sophisticated choice for creating a serene and elegant atmosphere. It can be used as a wall color in bedrooms or living rooms to promote relaxation. Pairing it with warm neutral tones and natural materials like wood and linen can enhance its calming effect. It also works well in bathrooms, where it evokes a sense of cleanliness and tranquility. Accents in metallic finishes, such as gold or brass, can add a touch of luxury. Remember to balance it with lighter colors to prevent the space from feeling too dark or overwhelming.
Fashion
In fashion, this hex color can be used to dye clothes for a formal or casual look. This colour can be used in many professional settings. Accessorizing with complementary colors like gold or light gray can help highlight the richness of the color, while maintaining a sophisticated appeal.